What is the most important aspect of the framing nailer? Numerous professionals will always mention the air compressor. They say if you don’t have the best air compressor, you’re going to have trouble with frame nailers.
This has a major impact on the way you work and your productivity in the workplace. This article provides important information on what size air compressor is for framing nailers.
Framing Nailers
Framing nailer is a term used to describe nail guns that utilize fasteners arranged in long strips during operation. They come in different sizes and shapes, including clip heads and full round head nailers, depending on the type of project.
Some strip nailers utilize clipped heads to bring nailers close to each other that, allow effortless reloading frequently. Clip head involves nailers banned by local building codes or state, while full round head nails offer an increased resistance for pulling out.
What Is An Air Compressor?
An air compressor is a machine that converts the power of compressed air into the potential energy it contains. It draws air into the storage tank to build pressure by condensing it as much as possible.
This kinetic energy, collected from the air, is then distributed to various tools and machines, such as nailers, to serve various capacities. This machine is not only used in nail guns but also in various applications such as power engineering, valves, and manufacturing machines for different control gadgets.
How Does An Air Compressor Work?
There are many types of air compressors on the market, and each works by design and brand. However, these machines work on the basic principle of sucking in air, pressurizing it, and storing it in the storage tank. When the tank pressure reaches its maximum allowable limit, it will no longer work. The compacted air is stored in the tank until it is used.
Types Of Air Compressors Available For Framing Nailers
Frame nailers are generally used on heavy-duty jobs like decks, fences, frames, etc. Therefore, they need sufficient power from the air compressor. However, due to the use of different technologies, not all frame nailers require compressors.
If you have a nail gun that doesn’t use a compressor, it is always recommended to choose a cordless or brushless gun. Fuel cartridges or batteries power these two guns. They have the same mechanism and no more often need an air compressor.
If you’re using a pneumatic frame nailer, you’ll need an air compressor. These nailers need a solid air compressor to work. Pneumatic nailers provide some of the best features. They don’t lead to electric shocks or fire hazards. In addition, they are eco-friendly and durable.
Features of an Air Compressor That Impact the Performance and Size
Figuring out which size air compressor to choose for your frame requires experience and technical knowledge. Let’s look at some of the features that we should always consider.
Features and technical specifications are extremely vital to get the best performance from an air compressor. Notwithstanding, there are numerous different variables that are equally crucial and shouldn’t be overlooked.
For example, check the noise level of the compressor. Most of the time, oil-powered compressors make a lot of noise that is irritating and hard to bear for long. When buying an air compressor for home use, choose one that runs quietly.
Another factor to consider when choosing an air compressor is the air cooling and thermal protection system. These elements keep the compressor cool and stop running if it gets too hot. This is a great way to protect loved ones from excessive heat, which could cause a fire or a serious accident.
Purchase an air compressor that needs less maintenance. Minimal air compressors work best and don’t need to be oiled regularly. They don’t require the user to lubricate it with oil over and over again. Plus, they can be used immediately.
What Size Air Compressor for Framing Nailer to Select?
Picking the correct compressor for your framing nailer is essential. The type of work generally depends on the compressor. Envision a weak air compressor. It probably won’t produce sufficient power. Thus, the nail is unlikely to go deep enough. Conversely, if you buy the overpowered one, all internal components will be damaged. It can even shorten its normal lifespan.
Since different machines need different sizes of air compressors, choosing the right one is essential. Purchasing the right compressor is essential to keeping errands running smoothly.
Framing nails need the most air compressors since they ordinarily use 2-inch to 3 ½-inch nails that hit frame bolts during the development cycle of unpleasant framing.
Normal air pressure for this use typically ranges from 100 psi (pounds per square inch) to 130 psi. When picking the best air compressors, you should consider the device with max. 120 PSI. Or more.
Frame nailers use more air than different types of pneumatic nailers. You need compressors rated at least 2 CFM to function properly. Virtually all of the compressors available meet this requirement.
However, as mentioned above, you will need an air compressor rated 4 CFM or higher if you are using 2 framing nailers simultaneously. Only a few small compressors meet this requirement.
How to maintain air compressors for framing nailers?
When you have the correct size of air compressor for your nailer, that is only the beginning of the journey. There are some of their elements that you’ve to hold under the hood so as to nail with it like an ace. Have a look at the basic safety and maintenance tips.
Switch it off when not in use.
The worst thing you can do as a user is to leave your machine when not in use. This act will lessen the normal lifetime of the machine. Leaving it on might also damage the internal components of the compressors as the temperature rises.
Grease up regularly
After a long time of use, interior machine components tend to get loose and damaged gradually. Oiling it on a daily basis will solve this issue.
Try not to oil the feed system.
Try not to place lubrication fluids into the feed systems. Lubes, such as oil, consistently draw in dust particles. The feed may get stuck in the event that you use oil.
Check the screws
Due to constant vibrations, the screws loosen after a while. Continuously check for loose screws. Loose screws are often responsible for numerous preventable injuries.
Final Words
There’s no reason to buy the biggest air compressor, particularly in this pandemic-stricken economy. Then again, buying a smaller size won’t help you complete the job smoothly.
In this way, carefully choose the air compressor you want and maintain it in the best possible way. We’ve talked about what size the air compressor is for framing the nailer. Ideally, you go ahead and pick the best size.